"This invention relates
generally to ways and means for propelling a person through the air in
a controlled flight. More particularly the invention provides a wingless
aircraft propelled by thrust reaction and capable of vertical ascent for
take off and climbing, hovering in the air, horizontal flight, and vertical
descent under such conditions that directional control, and transition
from vertical to horizontal flight and vice versa are effected by body
movements or balance of the pilot flying the machine." (A statement
from the Patent # 2,953,321)

The 47-year-old Hiller flying
platform, the closest design to mimic a magic
carpet still captures the public imagination.